7 Affordable Online Computer Science Degrees in Illinois

To work in the high-demand field of computer science, you usually need at least a bachelor's degree. If working this into your schedule is difficult, you can consider other options that won't require you to take time to learn on-campus. There are many low-cost online computer science degrees available.

These degrees teach computer science fundamentals and soft skills like critical thinking and problem-solving. Keep reading to discover affordable online computer science degrees in Illinois.

Affordable Online Computer Science Degree Programs in Illinois

There are many low-cost online colleges in Illinois, and several of them offer computer science degree programs. We've featured our top picks below, each with regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

1. Columbia College

Columbia College is based in Columbia, MO, but the private nonprofit has locations across the U.S., including one in Elgin, IL, and one in Freeport, IL. It offers an online bachelor's degree in computer science that covers fundamentals like:

• computer systems
• operating systems
• programming languages
• software engineering

The tuition rate for this bachelor's program is $375 per credit hour. Several scholarships are available to online students.

2. DePaul University

At DePaul University, students can earn a Bachelor of Science or a Master of Science in computer science online. DePaul is a private Catholic institution in Chicago.

The bachelor's option is a degree completion program for students with at least 30 credit hours; it offers concentrations in artificial intelligence, game systems, and software development. The master's program includes similar specializations as well as a few additional options.

Tuition for the bachelor's program is $796 per credit hour, and the master's program is $955 per credit; however, numerous scholarships are available, with some covering the full cost of tuition.

3. Lewis University

Lewis University offers an online bachelor's and master's degree in computer science. Multiple specializations are available for both programs:

• artificial intelligence
• cybersecurity
• game and simulation programming
• software engineering

The private Catholic university is located in Romeoville, IL. It charges $15,000 per year of full-time study for the bachelor's degree, or roughly $625 per credit, and $860 per credit for the master's. Lewis offers financial aid options, with 98% of students receiving aid and the average aid package totaling $25,000 per year.

4. McKendree University

McKendree University is a private school in Lebanon, IL. It offers an online bachelor's in computer information systems, which combines computer science and business intelligence. It includes courses on:

• computer networking
• data structures and algorithms
• information technology management
• project management

Tuition for this program is $420 per credit hour. Financial aid is available to help students pay for their online programs.

5. Southern Illinois University Carbondale

Students at Southern Illinois University Carbondale can earn a master's degree in electrical and computer engineering online. It includes courses on computer systems architecture, network security, and machine learning.

The public university charges $7,710 per semester of full-time study. Financial aid programs are available to online learners.

6. University of Illinois Springfield

The University of Illinois Springfield offers an online Bachelor of Science in computer science, as well as an online Master of Science. Both programs include coursework on algorithms, programming languages, and software engineering.

As a member of the University of Illinois system, UIS is a public institution. It charges $367.50 per credit for the bachelor's degree and $407 for the master's degree, with no difference between in-state and out-of-state pricing. Multiple financial aid options are available, including the Prairie Promise, which covers tuition costs for eligible first-time students.

7. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is the flagship institution of the University of Illinois system. It offers an online Master of Computer Science degree with an optional concentration in data science.

The flexible online program has a tuition rate of $620 per credit hour. Financial aid is available to students pursuing online education.

Our Selection Criteria

Our methodology for selecting the above schools was fairly simple. We focused on institutions that:

• are located in Illinois or have a campus in Illinois
• hold regional accreditation
• offer online bachelor's or master's degrees in computer science or a closely related field
• charge a low tuition rate or have financial aid options

All options listed above are online colleges that accept financial aid, so even if the numbers still seem high, you may be able to reduce your cost through scholarships or grants.

FAQs About Online Computer Science Programs

Below, we've answered a few frequently asked questions about online computer science programs.

How Much Does It Cost To Get an Online Computer Science Degree?

Of the bachelor's degrees listed above, the cost per credit ranges from about $370 to almost $800. However, many factors can impact your costs, including:

• whether you're earning an undergrad or graduate degree
• if you're at a private or public school
• if you're an in-state or out-of-state student
• whether you study full-time or part-time
• how many credit hours you need
• what financial aid you qualify for

If you already have college credits, for example, an associate degree from a community college, look for online colleges that accept transfer credits so that work doesn't go to waste. Often, community colleges are less expensive than four-year institutions, so many students choose to start there and then transfer.

Additionally, all students should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This determines your eligibility for federal and state financial aid, as well as many institutional aid programs. Many online colleges accept FAFSA to help students cover college expenses.

How Do I Get a Computer Science Bachelor's Degree Online?

Once you've chosen your program and been accepted, you'll receive all the information you need. While every school is different, your courses will most likely be asynchronous. This means that, while you still have set due dates, you can complete your coursework at any time before those due dates. There are no set meeting times, unlike in-person courses.

Most online programs allow you to study part-time or full-time. This gives you the freedom to take as many courses each term as you can manage. Some programs may require a capstone project or internship. You can usually find out more on the school's website.

Are the Cheapest Online Computer Science Degrees Worth It?

There are many low-cost, high-quality online computer science degrees available across the country. Price is not always an indication of quality, especially if you receive financial aid to increase affordability.

Always ensure the online school you choose is accredited � regional accreditation is generally preferred over national accreditation. If you're concerned about the quality of a program, you can always look up reviews about the school to see how others feel or look at where the school falls in rankings lists, such as those offered by the U.S. News and World Report.

Discover Online Bachelor's Degree Programs Today

Explore the accredited online programs featured on Learn.org to make your computer science career goals a reality. Contact schools for more information about admissions, enrollment, financial aid, and online learning.